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Tyre Safety – Bald Treads

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Tyre Safety – Bald Treads

Tyre Safety – Bald Treads

Tyre Safety – Bald Treads

Bald Tyres in Halifax – An Everyday Occurrence at Pellon Tyres

One of the most common things we see at Pellon Tyres in Halifax is vehicles arriving with tyres that are completely worn out. In fact, it happens almost every day.

The tyre shown in the original photograph is not unusual. To many people it may look shocking, but for those of us who work in the tyre industry, it is something we regularly encounter. Over the years, I have seen tyres worn down to the legal limit, tyres worn beyond the legal limit, and in some cases tyres worn so badly that the steel cords inside the tyre are actually visible.

As a tyre specialist, I still find it hard to understand how some motorists allow their tyres to reach such a dangerous condition. Yet every week vehicles arrive at our Halifax depot needing urgent attention because the tyres have simply been forgotten about.

Why Tyres Are Often Ignored: Tyre Safety – Bald Treads

I suppose the simple answer is that modern life is busy.

Most people rely heavily on their cars. Whether they are commuting to work, taking children to school, visiting family, shopping in Halifax town centre or travelling across Calderdale, their vehicle is an essential part of daily life.

Unfortunately, tyres are one of those things that drivers rarely think about until there is a problem.

People notice when the engine develops a noise. They notice when a warning light appears on the dashboard. They notice when the brakes start squealing.

Tyres, however, tend to go unnoticed because they gradually wear away over many thousands of miles.

A tyre that looked perfectly healthy six months ago can easily become dangerously worn if the vehicle covers a lot of mileage.

The Importance of Tread Depth

The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.

However, just because a tyre is legal does not necessarily mean it is performing at its best.

Many tyre manufacturers recommend replacement at around 3mm because tyre performance, particularly in wet weather, begins to decline significantly as the tread wears down.

This is especially important here in Yorkshire, where we often experience heavy rain, standing water and difficult driving conditions during autumn and winter.

A tyre with plenty of tread is able to disperse water effectively. A worn tyre struggles to clear water from the road surface, increasing the risk of aquaplaning.

Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between the tyre and the road surface. When this happens, the driver can temporarily lose steering, braking and control of the vehicle.

That is a frightening situation for any driver.

Halifax Roads Can Be Hard on Tyres: Tyre Safety – Bald Treads

Driving around Halifax and the surrounding Calderdale area can be particularly demanding on tyres.

We have steep hills, sharp bends, rough road surfaces and plenty of potholes that seem to appear every winter.

Roads through Pellon, Sowerby Bridge, Elland, Brighouse and Hebden Bridge all place different stresses on a vehicle’s tyres.

Constant braking on hills, cornering on winding roads and travelling over damaged road surfaces can all contribute to tyre wear.

Add in modern traffic levels and it becomes easy to see why tyres deserve regular inspection.

What We Often Find During Free Tyre Checks

At Pellon Tyres we offer free tyre inspections because we genuinely believe that many dangerous situations can be prevented by catching problems early.

During a typical tyre inspection we check the following:

Many customers are surprised when we discover problems they had no idea existed.

Sometimes a tyre may look acceptable from the outside yet have serious damage hidden on the inside edge.

This is particularly common on vehicles suffering from poor wheel alignment.

Servicing Helps Spot Tyre Problems: Tyre Safety – Bald Treads

One thing we often notice is that vehicles with bald tyres have frequently missed routine servicing.

When a vehicle comes into our workshop for servicing, MOT testing or repairs, our technicians automatically inspect the tyres.

Any issues are reported to the customer.

This gives drivers advance warning and allows them time to budget for replacement tyres if necessary.

In many cases customers return within a few weeks to have the work carried out because the issue remains fresh in their minds.

That is far better than waiting until an MOT failure or a dangerous roadside incident forces action.

The Cost of Delaying Replacement

I completely understand that tyres can be an unexpected expense.

With rising household costs, many motorists try to make their tyres last a little longer.

However, delaying replacement often proves to be a false economy.

A badly worn tyre is more likely to suffer a puncture or blowout.

Unevenly worn tyres can affect fuel economy.

Poor tyre condition can also increase wear on suspension and steering components.

Most importantly, worn tyres increase stopping distances.

At motorway speeds, the difference between stopping safely and being involved in a collision can be a matter of a few metres.

Those few metres can save lives.

Choosing the Right Tyres: Tyre Safety – Bald Treads

One thing we pride ourselves on at Pellon Tyres is offering customers a wide choice of tyre options.

Some motorists prefer premium brands such as Michelin, Bridgestone, Continental and Goodyear.

Others choose excellent mid-range products from brands such as Falken, Kumho and Yokohama.

For customers working to a tighter budget, we also stock carefully selected economy tyres that still provide safe and reliable performance.

The important thing is having safe tyres fitted by experienced professionals.

Don’t Wait Until They’re Bald

The simple message is this: don’t wait until your tyres are worn smooth before having them checked.

A quick inspection only takes a few minutes and could save you money, inconvenience and potentially something much more serious.

If you are unsure about the condition of your tyres, simply call into Pellon Tyres in Halifax.

We are always happy to carry out a free tyre and pressure check with no obligation.

After all, your tyres are the only part of your vehicle actually touching the road.

Looking after them is one of the most important things you can do to keep yourself, your passengers and other road users safe.

beware of cheap tyre repairs

Nail in your sidewall

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Nail in your Sidewall

Nail in your Sidewall
Nail in your Sidewall

Nail in Your Sidewall – When Can a Tyre Be Safely Repaired?

One thing I will always remember from my early tyre trade days was my time working at Kurt Neild Tyres in Leeds, UK. Looking back now, it was probably where I learned most of my tyre knowledge and many of the business skills that helped shape Pellon Tyres over the years.

Kurt Neild Tyres employed some of the best tyre technicians in the country at that time. They believed strongly in proper training and teaching younger staff the correct way to repair tyres safely and professionally. Much of that knowledge has stayed with me throughout my working life.

Back then, tyre repair work was carried out on everything from giant earthmover tyres to ordinary family car tyres. Interestingly, although the sizes varied enormously, the basic repair principles were very much the same. The materials used were all based around raw rubber compounds and specialist vulcanising processes.

The Problem with Sidewall Damage: Nail in your Sidewall

One thing motorists often ask today is the following:
“Can a tyre with a nail in the sidewall be repaired?”

Unfortunately, in many cases the answer is still no.

The sidewall and shoulder area of a tyre flex constantly whilst driving. This area experiences tremendous stress and heat build-up compared with the centre tread section. Because of this movement, ordinary puncture repairs are not considered safe in the sidewall region.

UK tyre repair laws are very strict regarding where a tyre may legally be repaired.

Under the current British Standard:

Only certain areas of the tyre tread can normally be repaired safely and legally on passenger vehicles.

Generally speaking:

  • repairs are allowed only within the central tread area,
  • and not in the outer shoulder or sidewall sections.

This is because repairs in those areas may weaken the tyre structure and increase the risk of sudden failure at speed.

The image shown alongside this article demonstrates exactly the type of damage I am referring to.

The Early Days of Vulcanised Repairs: Nail in your Sidewall

Years ago, if a customer arrived with a nail or screw in the shoulder area of a tyre, the answer was usually straightforward:

  • The tyre had to be replaced.

At that time, tyre sizes were generally much smaller than they are today. Most family cars used:

  • 13-inch,
  • 14-inch,
  • or perhaps 15-inch wheels.

Then along came the larger 16-inch tyres, which seemed enormous at the time and were very expensive when first introduced.

Being passionate about customer service and always trying to help customers save money where possible, I made the decision to purchase a specialist tyre vulcanising machine.

This machine allowed us to carry out advanced vulcanised repairs on certain types of tyre damage that would otherwise have required a costly replacement tyre.

What Is Tyre Vulcanising?

Tyre vulcanisation is a specialist repair process involving:

  • fresh raw rubber,
  • heat,
  • pressure,
  • and curing technology.

The damaged area of the tyre is carefully prepared before fresh rubber material is bonded into the damaged section. The tyre is then placed into a vulcanising machine where heat and pressure effectively “cook” the new rubber into the tyre structure itself.

When carried out correctly by trained technicians using approved methods, vulcanised repairs can provide a strong and long-lasting repair.

In many cases, the repaired area becomes almost as strong as the original tyre itself.

As time passed, tyre manufacturing changed dramatically.

The once-expensive 16-inch tyres eventually became commonplace and far cheaper to replace. Customers naturally preferred fitting a brand-new tyre rather than paying for specialist vulcanised repairs.

Eventually, the repair side of the business became less viable financially, and many garages, including ourselves, gradually stopped offering major vulcanising repairs.

Of course, we continued carrying out standard puncture repairs and still do so today.

The Return of Larger Tyres

Interestingly, the tyre industry has now almost gone full circle again.

Modern vehicles, especially SUVs and premium cars, now use extremely large wheel and tyre sizes as standard. Today it is completely normal to see the following:

  • 19-inch,
  • 20-inch,
  • 21-inch,
  • or even 22-inch tyres fitted to everyday road vehicles.

Many replacement tyres now cost the following:

  • well over £100,
  • £200,
  • or significantly more.

Even economy SUV tyres can now be surprisingly expensive.

As a result, many motorists are once again asking about specialist tyre repairs rather than immediately replacing damaged tyres.

Modern Specialist Tyre Repairs: Nail in your Sidewall

Because of the increasing cost of modern tyres, specialist repair technology has become relevant again.

At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we made the decision to invest in modern tyre vulcanising equipment so we could once again offer certain specialist tyre repairs safely and legally.

Importantly, we always follow:

  • UK tyre repair regulations,
  • manufacturer guidelines,
  • and strict safety procedures.

Not every tyre can be repaired, and customer safety must always come first.

Any tyre showing:

  • structural damage,
  • exposed cords,
  • large sidewall splits,
  • or severe internal damage

must still be replaced.

However, some specialist repairs can safely extend the usable life of expensive tyres when carried out correctly.

UK Tyre Repair Law

Many motorists are unaware that tyre repairs in the UK are governed by strict safety regulations.

The current recognised standard is the following:

  • British Standard BSAU159.

This standard sets out:

  • which areas may be repaired,
  • approved repair methods,
  • acceptable damage limits,
  • and inspection procedures.

Before any repair is carried out, the tyre must be removed from the wheel and thoroughly inspected internally for hidden structural damage.

Legally approved repairs must:

  • restore the tyre’s integrity,
  • maintain safety,
  • and not compromise the tyre’s speed or load rating.

Unsafe or external-only “string repairs” are not considered permanent legal repairs under British Standards.

Why Proper Repairs Matter: Nail in your Sidewall

A tyre is one of the most safety-critical components on any vehicle. It is the only part actually touching the road surface.

A poorly repaired tyre can lead to the following:

  • sudden deflation,
  • blowouts,
  • poor handling,
  • or loss of control.

This is why proper training and approved repair methods are so important.

At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we have always believed that safety comes before profit.

Modern tyres are more complex.

Modern tyres are also far more advanced than older designs.

Today’s tyres may include the following:

  • reinforced sidewalls,
  • run-flat technology,
  • low rolling resistance compounds,
  • and high-speed ratings.

This makes correct inspection and repair procedures even more important.

Some modern run-flat tyres, for example, may not be repairable at all depending on how long they have been driven while deflated.

Final Thoughts

The tyre industry has changed enormously over the years, but one thing remains the same:

  • Proper tyre safety matters.

From my early days at Kurt Neild Tyres in Leeds through to today at Pellon Tyres Halifax, tyre repair technology has continued evolving alongside changing tyre designs and vehicle technology.

With modern SUVs and premium tyres becoming increasingly expensive, specialist vulcanised tyre repairs are once again becoming a valuable option for motorists — provided they are carried out safely, professionally and within UK tyre repair laws.

At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we continue offering honest advice and professional tyre services to help keep local motorists safe on Yorkshire roads.

Are Continental the Best Tyres

Are Continental the Best Tyres

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Are Continental the Best Tyres

Are Continental the Best Tyres

Continental Tyres: A Brief History

Are Continental the Best Tyres
Mixed brands of tyres on the shelf

I must admit that in my early days in the tyre industry, Continental was not a company that was much heard of. Working for a local tyre fitting station in the mid-sixties was the beginning of my lifelong tyre experience. It was a time for a mass expansion in the tyre industry as cars became easier to afford for the working class of Great Britain. Continental’s involvement in the UK tyre market was through the back door. Hence, they acquired two smaller tyre manufacturers, Uniroyal and Semperit.

These two tyre companies already had a foothold in the UK distributor network. So, competing with the likes of Dunlop, Michelin, Firestone and Pirelli for their place in the UK pecking order. In my opinion Conti was involved in motor racing and built up their reputation on the race track.

Importantly, the German company has been producing tyres

for more than 145 years. Of course, the company has become a global powerhouse in the tyre sector, with outlets in more than 60 countries. A long-term investment, including their racing expertise and investment in R&D, has paid off. So, it is little surprise that the German tyre company has earned a solid reputation for quality and innovation.

Continental Tyres is well-known for its commitment to R&D, which ensures that the company’s products consistently represent the cutting edge of tyre technology. Continental Tyres constantly introduces new tyre designs and safety features. Especially where safety is concerned, self-sealing punctures *ContiSeal™ is a technology developed by Continental designed to seal damaged tyre tread and run-flat tyres at the forefront.

Effectiveness and dependability. Are Continental the Best Tyres

More importantly, Continental Tyres have earned their reputation as the industry standard. Of course, in large part due to their exceptional quality and dependability. All weather conditions, including dry, wet, and snowy, are no match for the superior grip and handling provided by Conti Tyres.

Technology advancements in tyres—like the 3D sipes that improve traction in the rain and the asymmetric tread pattern that improves handling and stability—make this possible.
Continental tyres are well-known for their long life and high performance. Tyres can last longer than other brands since they are built to endure high loads. In the long run, this can help you save money on tyre maintenance and replacement.

Are Continental the Best Tyres

Quality. Are Continental the Best Tyres

Continental tyres, also including Uniroyal and Semperit tyres, are the best since they are of the highest quality. The company is dedicated to producing items of the highest quality, and to that end, it employs only the finest raw materials and production methods. Continental tyres are tested to the limits to guarantee their safety, dependability, and superior quality. Because of how carefully they craft their products. Continental Tyres is often regarded as a top name in the tyre market.

Varieties of Goods. Are Continental the Best Tyres

Ultimately, Continental Tyres has a large selection of tyres to fit a variety of cars and driving preferences and climates. The company manufactures tyres for a wide variety of vehicles, including everyday commuters, sports cars, off-road machines, and racing cars. Good to know that Continental Tyres also provides an assortment of tyres for use in various climates, including summer, winter, and all-season models. This makes it so consumers can find tyres that are ideal for their vehicles.

Last but not least,

The German tyre company is lauded for its unparalleled commitment to client satisfaction. Here at Pellon Tyres, a group of hard-working experts is always ready to assist. I must admit that in my early days in the tyre industry, Continental was not a company that was much heard of.

Working for a local tyre fitting station in the mid-sixties was the beginning of my lifelong tyre experience. It was a time for a mass expansion in the tyre industry as cars became easier to afford for the working class of Great Britain. Continental’s involvement in the UK tyre market was through the back door. Hence, they acquired two smaller tyre manufacturers, Uniroyal and Semperit.

These two tyre companies already had a foothold in the UK distributor network. So, competing with the likes of Dunlop, Michelin, Firestone and Pirelli for their place in the UK pecking order. In my opinion, Conti was involved in motor racing and built up their reputation on the racetrack.

Importantly, the German company has been producing tyres

for more than 145 years. Of course, the company has become a global powerhouse in the tyre sector, with outlets in more than 60 countries. A long-term investment, including their racing expertise and investment in R&D, has paid off. So, it is little surprise that the German tyre company has earned a solid reputation for quality and innovation.

Continental Tyres is well-known for its commitment to R&D, which ensures that the company’s products consistently represent the cutting edge of tyre technology. Continental Tyres constantly introduces new tyre designs and safety features. Especially where safety is concerned, self-sealing punctures *ContiSeal™ is a technology developed by Continental designed to seal damaged tyre tread and run flat tyres at the forefront.

Effectiveness and dependability. Are Continental the Best Tyres

More importantly, Continental Tyres have earned their reputation as the industry standard. Of course, in large part due to their exceptional quality and dependability. All weather conditions, including dry, wet, and snowy, are no match for the superior grip and handling provided by Conti Tyres.

Technology advancements in tyres—like the 3D sipes that improve traction in the rain and the asymmetric tread pattern that improves handling and stability—make this possible.
Continental tyres are well-known for their long life and high performance. Tyres can last longer than other brands since they are built to endure high loads. In the long run, this can help you save money on tyre maintenance and replacement.

Quality. Are Continental the Best Tyres

Continental tyres, also including Uniroyal and Semperit tyres, are the best since they are of the highest quality. The company is dedicated to producing items of the highest quality, and to that end, it employs only the finest raw materials and production methods. Continental tyres are tested to the limits to guarantee their safety, dependability, and superior quality. Because of how carefully they craft their products. Continental Tyres is often regarded as a top name in the tyre market.

Varieties of Goods. Are Continental the Best Tyres

Ultimately, Continental Tyres has a large selection of tyres to fit a variety of cars and driving preferences and climates. The company manufactures tyres for a wide variety of vehicles, including everyday commuters, sports cars, off-road machines, and racing cars. Good to know that Continental Tyres also provides an assortment of tyres for use in various climates, including summer, winter, and all-season models. This makes it so consumers can find tyres that are ideal for their vehicles.

Last but not least,

The German tyre company is lauded for its unparalleled commitment to client satisfaction. Here at Pellon Tyres, a group of hard-working experts is always ready to assist consumers with any enquiries they may have about the product. To further reassure its customers, Conti Tyres backs each purchase with a warranty that covers manufacturing faults and possibly other difficulties.

Conclusion

For a variety of reasons, Conti makes the best tyres on the market, in my opinion. The company’s dedication to R&D, high standards of performance and dependability, superior quality, extensive product line, and superb customer service make it the go-to brand for motorists all over the globe. Continental tyres are possibly the best tyres you can buy. So if you’re in the market for a new set, look no further than Pellon Tyres, Halifax, UK.

Now onto 2024, Pellon Tyres are now members of Tyresafe.org, so consumers can have any enquiries they may have about the products. To further reassure its customers, Conti Tyres backs each purchase with a warranty that covers manufacturing faults and possibly other difficulties.

Now onto 2024 Pellon Tyres are now members of Tyresafe.org

The Disappearing Spare Wheel

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The Disappearing Spare Wheel

The Disappearing Spare Wheel

The Disappearing Spare Wheel

The Disappearing Spare Wheel – Why Modern Cars No Longer Carry One

One thing that still surprises many motorists visiting Pellon Tyre and Autocentre is discovering that their car does not actually have a spare wheel at all.

Over the years at Pellon Tyres, we have seen increasing numbers of drivers arrive after suffering a puncture only to discover there is no proper spare wheel hidden under the boot floor. Instead, many modern vehicles now come equipped with:

  • tyre inflation kits
  • cans of tyre sealant
  • space-saver wheels
  • or sometimes nothing more than a compressor

For older motorists especially, this still feels strange because for decades a spare wheel was simply part of every car.

So why did manufacturers start removing them, and which vehicles helped begin the trend?

When Every Car Carried a Spare Wheel

For many years, carrying a full-size spare wheel was considered completely normal.

Drivers travelling around Yorkshire in the 1960s, 70s and 80s would rarely think twice about it. Whether you were driving across the Pennines towards Lancashire or heading into the Yorkshire Dales, the spare wheel was simply there in case of trouble.

Back then punctures were also much more common than they are today.

Roads around Halifax and Calderdale were often rougher, and older tyres were far more vulnerable to damage from the following:

  • potholes
  • sharp stones
  • worn road surfaces

Many motorists even carried:

  • spare inner tubes
  • tyre levers
  • jacks
  • repair kits

Changing a wheel at the roadside was simply part of motoring life.

So Who Started Removing Spare Wheels? The Disappearing Spare Wheel

The gradual disappearance of the spare wheel began during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

European car manufacturers were among the first to heavily reduce spare wheel provision, mainly to:

  • reduce vehicle weight
  • improve fuel economy
  • lower emissions
  • create more boot space
  • cut manufacturing costs

One of the early trends came from German manufacturers including BMW and Mercedes-Benz, who increasingly fitted run-flat tyres instead of conventional spare wheels.

Run-flat tyres were designed to allow drivers to continue travelling for a short distance after a puncture without immediately stopping.

Soon afterwards, many mainstream manufacturers followed the same approach.

Cars Commonly Supplied Without Proper Spare Wheels

Today, many vehicles are supplied with either a temporary repair kit or a small emergency inflation compressor.

Some well-known examples include:

  • Ford Fiesta
  • Volkswagen Golf
  • BMW 3 Series
  • MINI Hatch
  • Nissan Qashqai
  • Tesla Model 3

Electric vehicles in particular rarely carry spare wheels because manufacturers want to maximise battery space and reduce weight wherever possible.

Some premium vehicles now rely entirely on tyre repair foam and roadside assistance services.

The Problem with Tyre Inflation Kits: The Disappearing Spare Wheel

While tyre inflation kits can sometimes work for small punctures, they are far from perfect.

At Pellon Tyres, we regularly see situations where:

  • sidewall damage cannot be repaired
  • large punctures defeat the sealant
  • compressors fail to inflate the tyre properly
  • tyre foam creates a mess inside the tyre

Unfortunately, once sealant has been used, some tyres become impossible to repair safely afterwards.

This can turn what may have been a simple puncture repair into a complete tyre replacement.

Yorkshire Roads and Pothole Problems

The disappearance of spare wheels becomes even more frustrating on roads around Halifax and Calderdale.

Steep hills, rough road surfaces and potholes can cause sudden tyre damage that no inflation kit can fix.

We regularly see:

  • split tyre sidewalls
  • cracked alloy wheels
  • damaged low-profile tyres
  • blowouts caused by potholes

In these situations, a proper spare wheel would often get the motorist safely home.

Without one, many drivers now rely completely on recovery services.

Space Saver Wheels – Better Than Nothing: The Disappearing Spare Wheel

Some manufacturers still provide space-saver spare wheels.

These smaller emergency wheels are designed purely for temporary use and usually carry speed restrictions.

Although not ideal, they are often far more useful than sealant kits, especially in rural areas where mobile signal or roadside recovery may be limited.

Many motorists around Yorkshire still prefer having some form of physical spare wheel available, particularly when travelling long distances.

Why Manufacturers Continue the Trend

Despite complaints from motorists, spare wheels continue disappearing for several reasons.

Manufacturers remain focused on:

  • reducing emissions
  • improving fuel economy
  • lowering production costs
  • increasing luggage space
  • reducing vehicle weight

Modern tyre technology has also improved significantly, meaning punctures are generally less common than years ago.

However, when punctures do happen, many drivers suddenly realise how much they miss having a spare wheel.

Some drivers are buying spare wheels separately. The Disappearing Spare Wheel

One growing trend we now see at Pellon Tyres is customers purchasing spare wheel kits after buying the vehicle.

Many motorists simply feel more comfortable knowing they have the following:

  • a jack
  • wheel brace
  • proper spare wheel

especially when travelling longer distances or driving in more remote parts of Yorkshire.

Some vehicles are even designed with hidden spare wheel wells despite no spare wheel actually being supplied by the manufacturer.

The Future of Spare Wheels

As electric vehicles and hybrid cars continue growing in popularity, spare wheels may become even rarer.

Manufacturers are increasingly relying on:

  • advanced tyre technology
  • roadside assistance packages
  • run-flat systems
  • tyre monitoring systems

Whether motorists fully accept the disappearance of the spare wheel remains another question entirely.

Many drivers still feel reassured knowing a proper spare wheel is sitting safely in the boot.

Final Thoughts: The Disappearing Spare Wheel

The disappearance of the spare wheel is one of those motoring changes many people barely noticed until they actually suffered a puncture.

What once seemed a basic part of every vehicle has quietly disappeared from many modern cars.

Here in Halifax and Calderdale, where rough roads and potholes remain a constant problem, many motorists still prefer the old-fashioned reassurance of carrying a spare wheel.

At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we continue helping customers deal with punctures, tyre damage and the modern reality of cars arriving with no spare wheel at all.

3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks You Cant Afford To Skip

3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

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3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks
3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks


Number Plate Maintenance

Regular car maintenance is crucial for your vehicle’s longevity, safety, and optimal performance. Just as our bodies need routine check-ups, cars require regular attention to prevent minor issues from becoming major, costly problems down the line.

In this article, we’ll discuss three critical maintenance tasks that you can’t afford to skip, from regular oil changes that keep your engine running smoothly to tyre checks that ensure your safety on the road. Uniquely, we’ll touch on the often-overlooked topic of number plate maintenance, which is vital for legality and identification purposes. 

Number Plate Maintenance– 3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

Maintaining the visibility of your number plates is crucial for legal and identification purposes. Dirty or obscured plates can lead to fines or penalties in many jurisdictions, as they hinder recognition by traffic enforcement cameras and law enforcement officials. Regular cleaning should ensure that your plates remain visible and legible.

There are situations where you might need to get new number plates. These could be due to damage, wear, or if they’re lost or stolen. Sometimes, existing plates may fade due to exposure to harsh weather conditions, making them difficult to read. In such cases, you should promptly order replacement number plates.

Getting new number plates also comes into play if you want to personalise your car with a unique registration number, which can be an expression of your personality or a way to make your vehicle more distinctive. Regardless, remember to always comply with the specifications and requirements set by local laws when replacing your number plates.

Regular Oil Changes– 3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

Changing your car’s oil regularly is one of the most important things you can do for your engine’s durability and efficiency. The engine oil lubricates the moving parts, reducing friction and wear, thereby preventing overheating and potential engine damage.

Over time, the oil becomes dirty and less effective due to the accumulation of dust, dirt, and other contaminants. This degraded oil can’t adequately protect the engine, leading to reduced performance and potentially severe engine damage. 

Regular oil changes ensure your engine runs with clean, effective oil. This keeps the engine healthier and enhances fuel efficiency, resulting in smoother rides and fewer frequent visits to the gas station. Regular oil changes are a small investment that pays off in the form of a longer-lasting, better-performing engine.

Tyre Checks– 3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

Maintaining correct tyre pressure, regular rotation, and alignment are vital aspects of car maintenance, significantly affecting safety, fuel efficiency, and tyre lifespan.

Correct tyre pressure ensures optimal contact between the tyres and the road. This provides better grip, reduces tyre wear, and enhances fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tyres can overheat and cause blowouts, while over-inflation reduces grip, affecting braking and handling. 

Regular tyre rotation, typically every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, balances tyre wear, helping all tyres to wear evenly and prolong their life. Alignment checks are also crucial, as misaligned tyres can lead to uneven wear, poor handling, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Driving on worn tyres is hazardous as it diminishes traction, increases stopping distances, and can lead to tyre failure. Regularly inspect tyres for tread depth and any signs of damage to ensure safe driving. Proper tyre maintenance saves money by extending tyre life, improving fuel economy, and ensuring safer journeys.

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2026 Article update: 3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks: Other important tasks

The Most Important Maintenance Jobs to Keep Your Car Safe on Yorkshire Roads

Running a car properly isn’t about fancy gadgets or expensive extras. It’s about looking after the basics. Around Halifax and Calderdale, where we deal with steep hills, damp roads, winter grit and busy town traffic, keeping a vehicle safe really matters.

Over the years at Pellon Tyres, we’ve seen plenty of cars come in for simple checks that could have prevented bigger problems. Most breakdowns and MOT failures aren’t dramatic engine failures — they’re down to everyday maintenance being ignored.

Here’s what really matters.

Tyres – Your Only Contact with the Road

Let’s start with the obvious one.

Your tyres are the only part of your car touching the road. In heavy Yorkshire rain, that matters more than ever.

Drivers should regularly check:

  • Tread depth (legal limit is 1.6mm, but we recommend thinking about replacement at 3mm)
  • Tyre pressures (incorrect pressures affect grip and wear)
  • Sidewall damage or bulges
  • Uneven wear (which could mean alignment issues)

With heavier rainfall these days and more traffic on faster roads, worn tyres dramatically increase the risk of aquaplaning. A decent tyre with proper tread depth can make the difference between staying in control and sliding helplessly.

Free tyre checks take minutes. Ignoring tyres can cost much more.

Brakes – Don’t Wait for Grinding Noises: 3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

Brakes rarely fail without warning. They normally give signs:

  • Squealing
  • Grinding
  • Vibration through the pedal
  • Pulling to one side

Brake pads and discs wear gradually. Leaving them too long can turn a simple pad change into a full disc replacement.

On Calderdale’s hills, good brakes aren’t optional. Long descents and stop-start traffic put extra strain on braking systems.

If something doesn’t feel right, get it checked.

Suspension – The Unsung Hero

Suspension components like:

  • Shock absorbers
  • Springs
  • Control arms
  • Bushes
  • Drop links

All work quietly in the background. When they wear, drivers often ignore it because it “still drives”.

But worn suspension affects:

  • Braking distance
  • Tyre wear
  • Steering stability
  • Emergency handling

We’ve seen plenty of vehicles where a simple worn suspension arm has made a car unsafe without the driver realising it.

Steering and Wheel Alignment: 3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

Modern cars are sensitive to alignment. Hitting potholes, kerbs or speed bumps can knock things out.

Signs of trouble:

  • Steering wheel not straight
  • Car pulling to one side
  • Uneven tyre wear

Wheel alignment protects tyres and keeps handling stable, especially at motorway speeds.

Battery Health

Modern cars are more dependent on electrical systems than ever.

Cold Yorkshire winters can finish off a weak battery quickly.

Warning signs:

  • Slow cranking
  • Dashboard warnings
  • Dim lights

A quick battery test can prevent a breakdown on a frosty morning.

Fluids – The Lifeblood of Your Engine: 3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

Many drivers never check fluid levels. They should.

Important fluids include:

  • Engine oil
  • Coolant
  • Brake fluid
  • Power steering fluid
  • Screenwash

Low oil or coolant can cause serious engine damage.

Regular servicing catches problems before they escalate.

Exhaust System

We often see:

  • Corrosion
  • Loose brackets
  • Blowing joints
  • Complete failures

Exhaust systems live underneath the car, exposed to salt and water. Once they start corroding, they can fail quickly.

A noisy exhaust isn’t just irritating — it can mean fumes leaking or an MOT failure.

Lights and Visibility

It sounds simple, but:

  • Faulty brake lights
  • Dull headlights
  • Worn wiper blades

All affect safety.

In poor Yorkshire weather, visibility is everything.

Regular Servicing – Not Just a Stamp in a Book

A proper service isn’t just about oil changes.

It includes:

  • Safety inspections
  • Component wear checks
  • Early problem detection
  • Diagnostic scans on modern vehicles

Catching things early keeps costs down and safety up.

MOT – A Minimum, Not a Maintenance Plan

The MOT is a legal requirement, but it’s only a snapshot of your car’s condition on that day.

It doesn’t replace regular maintenance.

Drivers should think of MOT as a yearly safety check, not a substitute for looking after their vehicle.

Final Thoughts from Pellon Tyres

Keeping a car safe isn’t complicated. It’s about staying on top of:

  • Tyres
  • Brakes
  • Suspension
  • Steering
  • Fluids
  • Battery
  • Lights

Small checks prevent big problems.

Around Halifax and Calderdale, with our weather and road conditions, good maintenance isn’t just sensible — it’s essential.

A well-maintained car doesn’t just pass its MOT. It protects the driver, passengers and everyone else on the road.

And that’s what really matters.

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Audi A1 with a Dangerous Tyre – A Busy Day at Pellon Tyres, Halifax

Yesterday was one of those proper busy days here at Pellon Tyres where the phones never stopped and cars kept coming through the doors one after another. Among the bustle, one chap arrived with a very smart-looking black Audi A1. Lovely little car, well looked after, and clearly someone’s pride and joy. But he wasn’t happy with how it felt on the road — especially at higher speeds.

He explained that the car seemed to wander slightly and didn’t feel as stable as it should on the motorway. When a customer says something like that, it usually points us towards the tyres, suspension, or alignment. So Dale got the Audi straight on the ramp to take a proper look.

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audi-A1-dangerous-tyre

A Dangerous Tyre Found – Breaking Up on the Outer Edge: audi-A1-dangerous-tyre

It didn’t take him long to find the culprit. One of the front tyres had severe damage on the outer shoulder, the sort of thing that makes anyone who works with tyres take a deep breath. The tread was starting to break up, and sections of rubber were beginning to separate. If the customer had carried on driving like that, especially on the motorway, it could easily have ended in a blowout. Halifax roads can be rough enough as it is—you don’t want a failing tyre on top of that.

The customer was shocked when we showed him the damage up close. From the side, the tyre looked fairly normal, but once you turned the wheel or looked from underneath, the problem was obvious. It’s a good reminder that tyre problems often hide where you can’t see them on the driveway.

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Tyre side-wall/bead area breaking up

Why Tyres Break Up on One Edge: audi-A1-dangerous-tyre

Damage like this usually comes from a mix of things:

  • Under-inflation, causing excess flex in the rubber

  • Misaligned wheels, wearing one edge faster

  • Potholes, something Halifax is full of

  • Old age or heat cycles

  • Or simply hitting kerbs while parking on narrow streets

This one looked like a mix of under-inflation and poor alignment — not helped by a few big potholes along the customer’s commute.

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anothe view of the sidewall/bead area breaking up

New Royal Black Tyre Fitted: audi-A1-dangerous-tyre

Once we’d explained the situation, the customer agreed that replacing the tyre was the only safe option. We fitted a brand-new Royal Black tyre, one of our popular mid-range choices. Royal Black tyres suit everyday Halifax driving perfectly — plenty of grip, comfortable, and sensibly priced. Once balanced and fitted correctly, it looked spot-on, and the customer was pleased to have a safe but affordable solution. He commented that it offered great value compared to some of the premium brands, especially just before Christmas.

A Quick Word About the Audi A1 in the UK

The Audi A1 has been a popular sight on British roads since it arrived in 2010. Small, stylish and surprisingly solid, they’ve always been a favourite with driv­ers who want a premium feel in a compact car. Around Halifax — whether it’s Savile Park, Siddal, or up the hills in Pellon — you see loads of them. Because the A1 handles so nicely, drivers sometimes don’t notice when a tyre is wearing unevenly. The car masks the problem until the tyre starts breaking up — which is exactly what happened here.

Alignment Sorted – Back to Driving Straight and True: audi-A1-dangerous-tyre

After the new Royal Black tyre was fitted, Dale carried out a full wheel alignment check, and sure enough, the front end was slightly out. Only by a small margin, but over thousands of miles that small misalignment had been enough to chew up the outer edge of the old tyre. A few careful adjustments later, and the Audi’s steering was sitting perfectly centred again.

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new Royal Black tyre fitted

Another Happy Halifax Driver

When the customer headed off, he immediately felt the difference — smoother steering, proper stability at speed, and no more wandering around in the lane. He thanked us for spotting the danger before it became something serious, and he left with peace of mind and a safer car. That’s exactly what we’re here for.

If you’re unsure about your own tyres, pop in anytime. A quick check only takes a moment and could prevent a serious problem.

👉 www.pellontyres.co.uk – tyres, MOTs, batteries, servicing and more.

And if you fancy a break next spring or summer, stay in our peaceful caravan over on the Yorkshire coast — perfect for a relaxing getaway.
👉 Take a look at our coastal retreat at Thornwick Bay (Lucky Paws – open spring to autumn)